|
[ Return to Contents
| Post a Reply
| Post a new message
]
Tips on Emergency Preparation
Posted by Michael Strahan on Jan 31 2006
Great thread! Here are some additional thoughts.
1. Trip plan. Write down the coordinates of where you're going (and send them to me for my next book! :-D). Seriously though, write down your hunting location, a description of the color, number and type of tents, color, type and number of rafts, etc. that will aid rescuers in finding your camp from the air. Include expected drop-off and pick-up dates, along with the "drop dead" date by which you want someone to call in the dogs if you don't show. Leave copies of this trip plan with your family, and the air charter.
2. Voice communication gear. I prefer a satphone, but we saved a guy's life once with a hand-held aviation VHF radio. If you can talk directly to rescuers, you're miles ahead of the game.
3. GPS (set on the correct datum for your area- check your maps for this info). The GPS, together with voice comms will allow you to tell 'em exactly where you are. Those boys at the RCC can put a Blackhawk chopper right in your camp after dark.
4. Claritin for beestings. Some folks may experience anaphylactic shock from bee or wasp stings (sometimes this happens without warning); bring an anti-histamine. Claritin is rumored to work well for both beestings and white-sox bites (thanks to Marc Taylor for this tip, btw).
5. Tough-skin. It's a spray-on that can help prevent blisters. Toss in some mole-skin and mole-foam. The foam is great in some situations, and it's very sticky. It will not usually come off even from wet feet.
6. Open wounds. I tossed Super Glue into my kit too, but a doctor friend warned me that closing a wound in field conditions may be much worse than leaving it bandaged or even somewhat exposed (of course depending on the severity). Closed wounds trap infection and can cause very serious problems. Same goes for sutures. Unless you're absolutely sure the wound is very clean, best to treat, bandage and evac out of there ASAP.
7. SAM splint. I bring a roll of this stuff (it can be cut into smaller pieces as needed), and I also toss in a finger splint. Of course you can make your own with a stick and gauze or tape. But the commercial splints cover the tip of the finger, which could be just what you need.
8. Burn cream, antibacterial ointment, etc. Most first aid kits are completely inadequate, and you will need to work off of a list of your own.
9. Immodium. I agree about Flagyl being the treatment for giardia, however giardia takes about two weeks to become evident. By that time, most of us are already out of the field. I use Immodium to get things under control until I get back where better treatments are available. To each his own. Mark has to seek out longer-term self care in his situation.
10. Needle, tweezers, nail clippers, small scissors and latex gloves. You may need to dig out devil's club splinters, cut your SAM splint or gauze, etc. The latex gloves are to avoid wound contamination and to protect you from bloodborne pathogens that may be present in your hunting partner. Many long-term illnesses are transmitted through contact with blood.
11. First aid books. The best one I know of is Medicine for Mountaineering, by Wilkerson. It is small enough that you'll take it with you, and deals with injuries ranging from very severe and life-threatening to mild irritations. Get a copy and take it with you!
12. Cool head. This is probably your greatest asset, and is usually a result of good training and preparation. If you're unprepared, or untrained, you're more likely to blow it. Take the time to learn what to do in various situations.
Lots more to say about this, but gotta leave some for someone else!
Hope it helps...
-Mike
Previous: Most useful thread yet! AKWannabe Feb 02 2006
Next: Live To Hunt Another Day DR B Jan 31 2006
 Message Thread:
|
